Sailor sets off on voyage of adventure

While several officers wished their fellow naval personnel the very best, a lanky old man watched on gleefully.

Nothing could mask the happiness and pride of VC Tomy, father of the 33-year-old sailor.

"I couldn't be more proud as a parent. With all the blessings around, he will complete the task at hand," said the proud father.

"I remember him being focused about such an occasion early in his career. He joined the navy in 1996 and by 1999 he had made up his mind about the trip. Even though he told us in 2004, I could see it coming, judging by his interest in solo navigations," he said.

Sailor sets off on voyage of adventure

Tomy senior was also quick to dispel the apprehensions associated with the lengthy and unpredictable expedition.

"I am not at all scared of the situations that could arise during the course of the expedition. Abhilash is capable of managing himself; besides he has blessings and well-wishes from all of us," he said.

On keeping in touch with his globe-trotting son, he said, "When he is at sea, there will be no phone communication".

"Everything will be on e-mail. He will be sending his daily positions and readings to the naval headquarters, from which I will get to know his locations and the conditions," explained VC.

Sailor sets off on voyage of adventure

"Traditionally, it should be a smooth sail. I will be east-bound, touching Cape Leeuwin first. But there will be challenges on the way, depending on the conditions," he said.

Explaining further, Tomy said, "Last time, when I was making my way from Cape to Goa, I was alone in that leg of sailing. Sometimes, you can see the sea roaring with waves that attain a height of nearly 30 metres."